Moussa Dembele to Tottenham: Spurs step up chase for Fulham forward

Standard Sport understands Spurs have been speaking to the 19-year-old's representatives for some time but have now opened discussions with the Championship club.

Dembele is out of contract at the end of the season, which could encourage Fulham to sell their starlet this month to secure a significantly higher transfer fee.

Manchester United, Monaco, Feyenoord, Borussia Dortmund and Napoli are also among the clubs monitoring Dembele, but, were Fulham to hold onto him until the summer, selling to an English club would be in their interests.

What does January hold for Tottenham?

What does January hold for Tottenham?

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Outlook

Tottenham’s consistency means they are on course for a top-four finish though they need to start turning draws to wins if they are to become serious title challengers. Mousa Dembele (groin) is injured and Spurs are missing his dynamism in midfield.

Bryn Lennon/Getty Images

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Transfer targets

Spurs are looking for at least one forward. They are chasing back-up for Harry Kane and a player who can play wide or through the middle. Saido Berahino (pictured) is on their list among with Fulham’s Moussa Dembele and Sandro Ramirez of Barcelona. They could also use a little more experience in central midfield, where Southampton’s Victor Wanyama remains a target.

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Biggest challenge

The management of Kane. Spurs don’t have a direct replacement so it is difficult for them to rest him. Mauricio Pochettino must use whatever chance he has to keep Kane fresh, without compromising his team’s chances on three fronts.

"I don't plan for it and that is it. This team needs some fresh blood and we are thinking about some players who can help us in the future."

It is not clear if Tottenham's pursuit of the Fulham man spells the end of their drawn-out attempt to prise Saido Berahino from West Brom.